Forget the hype – here’s where DJs really work and earn:
UK Hotspots
London dominates with hundreds of venues. From Shoreditch warehouse parties to Mayfair members’ clubs, the opportunities are endless. Competition is fierce, but rates are the highest. Regular bar DJs earn £200–500 a night. Birthday parties and corporate gigs keep mobile DJs booked all year.
Manchester has a legendary music scene. Northern Quarter bars, Warehouse Project sets, and student nights keep the decks spinning. Slightly lower rates than London — but so’s the rent.
Birmingham, Leeds, Brighton, Glasgow – Strong scenes with less competition. Ideal for building your reputation. Brighton’s beach clubs are crying out for house DJs every summer.
Overseas Gold Mines
Ibiza is still the holy grail. San Antonio bars pay €100–200 per night. Big clubs pay more — but the competition is brutal. Thousands apply for every slot.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer year-round gigs in hotels and beach clubs. Tax-free earnings and free accommodation. Ideal if you can handle the heat — and the strict rules.
Greek Islands (Zante, Mykonos, Ios) need DJs from June to September. Lower pay than Ibiza, but gigs are easier to land. A great place to cut your teeth abroad.
Cruise Ships hire DJs on 6–8 month contracts. Free food, travel, and a room — though cabins are small and seasickness is real. Still, you’ll save most of your salary.